TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS

I recently read Malcolm Gladwell's book, Blink, which from my understanding is about the rapid cognitive process that happens to give us on the spot conclusions when seeing something for the first time.

Those initial introductory seconds can be the best and most efficient in revealing one's true feelings about something...it certainly has its place in a designer's world. We can look at something and sense what is out of place or not working, if color is expressing the proper mood, or if even the slightest 2 pixel movement is needed to achieve an element's best position. Sometimes it takes stepping away from a design for a little while so we can return with a fresher look and get a chance for that "blink" reaction.

When we talk about gut reactions, they are often less favorable compared to thoughtful, rational, well-timed decisions. So the question is, when is it valuable to rely on our guts and when is it not? According to Gladwell, extensive market testing is not always accurate. He fills the book with examples from history, such as the failed attempt of New Coke in the 80s and the against all odds success of Herman Miller's famous Aeron Chair.

It's inspiring to know that sometimes, simply going with your gut can lead to greatness.